At Novartis we hold ourselves to high ethical standards. Not only our Code of Ethics outlines the values and behaviors for our associates but also our Third Party Code (PDF 0.4 MB) defines the standards we require our external partners to adhere to.

Novartis promotes the societal and environmental values of the United Nations Global Compact and United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights to its external partners and uses its influence where possible to encourage their adoption. To achieve this, Novartis has developed an External Partner Risk Management (EPRM) framework that supports the assessment and management of risks related to the engagement of external partners. By understanding the exposure and managing it effectively, we protect our patients, the company, and shareholders against adverse impacts such as regulatory, financial, or reputational damage.

EPRM is an integral part of the Ethics, Risk and Compliance (ERC) function at Novartis.

EPRM Mission Statement & Core Principles

We want to assure that Novartis engages only with external partners who are capable and willing to comply with our standards. EPRM framework and process are designed according to our three core principles.

Regulatory Compliance & Beyond

We are addressing the trend of increasing regulations and support delivery on commitments to strengthen trust with society.

Speed to Engagement

Providing risk assurance is just as important as running efficient and fast processes in order to increase internal acceptance.

Risk Based Approach

Our due diligence efforts will be proportionate to the level of identified risks which is determined by probability and severity of adverse events.

EPRM Mission Statement & Core Principles

How does EPRM work

How does EPRM work

Risk Areas covered by EPRM

Risk Areas covered by EPRM

The Novartis Third Party Code

The Novartis Third Party Code(PDF 0.4 MB) sets out our corporate responsibility standards, which we require our external partners to comply with. Adherence to the standards contained in our Third Party Code is one of the criteria used in the Novartis partner selection and evaluation process.

We expect our external partners to perform beyond legal compliance and operate in line with ethical business practices (Governance); act as responsible stewards of natural resources and minimize their negative impact on the environment (Environmental); and protect and advance human rights and the communities in which they operate (Social).The Third Party Code is based on the United Nations Global Compact, the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and other international standards or accepted good practices.

Novartis is a member of the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Initiative (PSCI) and the Third Party Code is also consistent with the PSCI Principles for Responsible Supply Chain Management.

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